Melton Mowbray Town Estate

From the Melton Times.

The bridge on the River Eye has finally been built - 100 years after plans were first drawn up.

In 1907, Josiah Gill proposed linking Play Close Park with the land on the opposite side of the river, what is now Leicester Road Sports Ground.

On Friday his vision was finally completed by the Town Estate when it lifted the new bridge into place.

Foeffee John Southerington spearheaded the project and funded it through his company, removals firm W. Southerington and Sons Ltd.

He said: "I am extremely pleased with the bridge, it looks marvellous. We funded it because we have been part of Melton for more than 116 years and it is a thank you for the support the business has been given by the town."

The 10-ton bridge, called the John Southerington Bridge, was made in Salford and painted Brunswick green, the Town Estate colours, blending it into the surrounding trees.

This week the finishing touches were added, including the gates, gold leaf and ramps making it accessible to wheelchairs and buggies. An official opening is expected to take place on Friday, in time for Monday's Melton Show.

by Ben Truslove 19 May 2008

The full article contains 210 words and appears in Melton Times newspaper.